1976 Ford Taunus vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 1988 Volvo 480 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Ford Taunus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Ford Taunus would be higher. At 1,721 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Volvo 480 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Volvo 480 (108 HP) has 41 more horse power than 1976 Ford Taunus. (67 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Volvo 480 should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Taunus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Ford Taunus weights approximately 35 kg more than 1988 Volvo 480.
Because 1976 Ford Taunus is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1976 Ford Taunus. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Volvo 480, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1988 Volvo 480 (140 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Taunus. (115 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1988 Volvo 480 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Taunus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Ford Taunus | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Taunus | 480 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1593 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 108 HP |
| Torque | 115 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.7 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1035 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2510 mm |
